Taxi association in St Catherine launches search for missing driver

Members of the Linstead and Bog Walk Taxi Association today launched a search for their missing colleague Rushane Wilkins, who went missing on Friday.

Reports indicate that Wilkins accepted a charter to the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston but he has not been seen since.

This morning, members of the association convened in Sligoville, where Wilkins' burnt out Toyota Probox motor car was previously discovered by residents.

Michelle Taffe, the president of the association, who spearheaded the search, expressed grave concern for Wilkins' well-being.

During the search, a few items, including $50 bills and a fragment of a shoe, were discovered close to where the fire-destroyed car was found.

With hopes dwindling of finding Wilkins alive, Taffe acknowledged the grim reality, stating,"We realise that we need to retrieve his body before it decomposes." 

Meanwhile, Superintendent Hopeton Nicholson, commander of the St Catherine North police, assured that investigations were under way since the police received report of Wilkins' disappearance late Friday evening.

"We will be seeking assistance from the K9 division to aid in the search," said Nicholson.

He also urged taxi operators to exercise caution and diligence in assessing individuals who charter their vehicles before accepting their business.

The collaborative efforts between the taxi association and law enforcement signify a community united in their determination to bring closure to the unsettling incident and provide answers, which, according Nicholson, he hopes will be in short order.

- Ruddy Mathison

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